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Commencement marked the end of my first academic year as president of Graceland University. I’ve spent much of the past year listening — learning from students, faculty, alumni, and staff about what makes Graceland so beloved, and where we must grow to meet the challenges of the future.
It has been a year of hard work and hopeful beginnings. I’m grateful every day for the people who make this place extraordinary.
When I was inaugurated in October, I shared three goals that will guide our efforts moving forward:
To create a strong student experience
To make Graceland a great place to work
And to drive revenue so we can reinvest in our mission
None of these goals will be accomplished without some pain. None will be accomplished without some transformation. To prosper into this century, Graceland must move forward boldly. We must not be afraid to make mistakes or to change our minds.
And that is what we are doing — together.
We are reimagining academic programs, growing graduate enrollment, investing in campus experiences, and centering student success in every decision. We are strengthening community among our employees, listening to feedback, and working to make Graceland not only sustainable, but vibrant and values-driven.
Graceland is proudly different.
We are a university that embraces radical belonging. Our students come from 30 countries. We are a minority-majority university. Nearly half of our students are Pell Grant eligible. This does not mean Graceland has been untroubled by problems, but rather that we choose to invite everyone to the tableto build a vibrant educational community. We provide transformative education at an incredible value — the most affordable private university in Iowa. However, cost is only part of the story. A Graceland education teaches students to look beyond themselves. We strive to create graduates who understand the world and aspire to make it better.
Graceland remains a place where students, regardless of their background, learn to broaden their minds, develop their voice, and engage deeply with others. We reject narrowness and fear. We nurture curiosity, empathy, and intelligence. Higher education is changing, and Graceland is changing with it — not by compromising who we are, but by doubling down on what matters.
To our alumni, friends, and extended community: thank you for believing in this mission. Thank you for walking beside us. We’re just getting started.
Joel Shrock, PhD
President
Follow me:
@GracelandUPres
@GracelandUPres
